Depression–Heart Disease Link Probed

Abstract

NEW ORLEANS—People with cardiovascular disease are more likely to be clinically depressed and some seemingly healthy people with depression are at greater risk of developing heart problems. While scientists have yet to show that treating depression reduces cardiovascular mortality rates, evidence continues to mount that treating people with depression does improve their dysphoria and quality of life and may increase longevity (Glassman et al. JAMA. 2002;288:701-709; Musselman et al. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 1998;55:580592). Investigators are uncovering the ways depression is related to a variety of cardiovascular complications, opening new avenues for future treatment success. As research presented in November at the Scientific Sessions of the American Heart Association revealed, scientists are documenting the link among depression, infection, and immunity after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and how treating major depression in such patients can prevent a decline in immunity and an increase in infection. They are also uncovering specific aspects of cardiovascular disease affected by depression and other psychological conditions. In addition, with the growing acknowledgment of the mental health–cardiovascular disease link, researchers are documenting defined patient populations at greater risk for depression and those whose psychological conditions are being missed by treating physicians.